1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (152 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 450 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 53 L |
